Spain Introduces New R-118 Sign to Regulate Electric Scooters
Spain has introduced the R-118 traffic sign under Royal Decree 465/2025 to prohibit electric scooters from designated areas and improve urban safety as part of new national micromobility regulations.
Spain has reached a new milestone in regulating personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as electric scooters, as they become a common sight in cities. The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has introduced new signage to better manage where these devices can be used, formalizing these rules through Royal Decree 465/2025.
The key change is the introduction of the R-118 sign. This circular sign features a red border and a white background with an electric scooter icon. Its purpose is simple: it prohibits PMVs from entering any road where the sign is displayed. These signs are being rolled out gradually, primarily in busy pedestrian areas where sharing space with motorized scooters poses a safety risk.
Under the new regulations, a PMV is defined as an electric vehicle with one or more wheels capable of speeds between 6 and 25 km/h. To be used legally, every device must have a registration certificate from the Light Personal Vehicle Registry and display the required identification label. Ignoring an R-118 sign can result in a fine of up to 200 euros.
It is important to note that this new sign complements existing traffic laws. Riding PMVs on sidewalks, pedestrian zones, tunnels, highways, and motorways remains strictly prohibited. By standardizing these rules, authorities aim to make city streets safer and provide clearer guidance for riders as micromobility continues to grow.